A no-nonsense first challenge, a surprise 13th finalist and a pan set ablaze in the kitchen — Sunday's
Food Network Star premiere was full of flare-ups and near meltdowns that kept the competitors guessing at every turn. But while the action was unfolding on-screen, there was no shortage of antics taking place behind the scenes either.
Check out these insider photos from the set to see what the cast, mentors and crew were up to between takes, and find out what it takes to make this show possible.

Hosts Giada de Laurentiis and Bobby Flay, as seen on Food Network Star, Season 12.